What to Know About the $900B Defense Bill: Boat-Strike Footage, Troop Minimums, Ukraine Aid and More

Washington — The House is poised this week to vote on a $900 billion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that pairs routine military funding with high-profile policy changes and oversight measures. The annual bill — traditionally bipartisan — arrives amid congressional scrutiny over recent U.S. strikes off Venezuela’s coast and broader debates about the Pentagon’s priorities.

Oversight Demand: Boat-Strike Videos and Orders

Members of Congress are pressing the Pentagon to provide unedited video and the operational orders for strikes on suspected drug-smuggling vessels, and they have threatened to withhold 25% of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s travel budget if those materials are not produced. The demand follows reports that U.S. forces fired on two survivors clinging to wreckage after a Sept. 2 strike. Legal experts and some lawmakers say a follow-up strike that day may have violated the laws of armed conflict, although the administration has characterized its actions as part of an armed campaign against drug cartels.

Aid for Ukraine

The NDAA would authorize $400 million per year for two years to manufacture weapons destined for Ukraine. While this funding is modest compared with Kyiv’s full needs, supporters say it signals continued congressional backing at a time when presidential support for Ukraine has been uncertain. The bill also directs the Pentagon to resume and provide intelligence support to Ukraine after a temporary pause earlier in the year.

Troop Presence in Europe and Korea

To reassure U.S. allies, the bill sets minimum force levels abroad: at least 76,000 troops and major equipment in Europe unless NATO partners are consulted and a determination is made that a reduction is in U.S. interests, and a floor of 28,500 troops in South Korea. Typically between 80,000 and 100,000 U.S. service members are stationed in Europe; allies have expressed concern about potential large-scale withdrawals as tensions with Russia continue.

IVF Coverage Omitted

An earlier version of the NDAA would have expanded military health coverage to include in vitro fertilization (IVF) for service members and their families. That provision was removed from the current measure, and Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-Calif.) has publicly criticized House Speaker Mike Johnson for scrapping the IVF expansion from the bill. The NDAA still includes an approximate 4% pay raise for service members.

Repealing the Iraq War Authorization

The legislation would formally repeal the authorization for the 2003 invasion of Iraq, a move lawmakers in both chambers have supported to prevent future overreach and to underscore that Iraq is now a strategic partner rather than a theater for open-ended military action. The 2002 authorization has seldom been used in recent years but was cited in prior legal rationales for certain strikes.

Ending Remaining Syria Sanctions

The bill would permanently lift the last U.S. sanctions imposed on Syria in 2019. While the administration had issued temporary waivers for parts of the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, only Congress can remove the sanctions permanently. Proponents argue that lifting these measures would encourage international investment needed for reconstruction.

Cuts to Climate and DEI Programs

The House Armed Services Committee reports roughly $1.6 billion in cuts to climate-related defense initiatives, though it has not specified which programs would be trimmed. Separately, the bill would eliminate about $40 million by repealing certain diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) offices, programs and trainings, including positions such as a chief diversity officer. Supporters of the reductions argue they align with the administration’s priorities; critics warn the moves could weaken force readiness and undermine efforts to address climate-related risks to bases and infrastructure.

Bottom line: The NDAA blends traditional defense funding with contentious policy shifts and heightened oversight, and it will test bipartisan support as the House prepares to vote.